How much does an employment lawyer cost in Melbourne?
Melbourne employment lawyers typically charge between $300 and $600 per hour. An unfair dismissal matter resolved at FWC conciliation may cost $2,500–$8,000 in total. If it proceeds to a full hearing, costs rise to $8,000–$25,000+. Melbourne rates are broadly comparable to Sydney, with suburban employment law specialists often sitting at the lower end of the range.
Fee ranges by matter type
Unfair dismissal (conciliation): $2,500–$8,000. Unfair dismissal (full hearing): $8,000–$25,000+. General protections: $7,000–$30,000+. Employment contract review: $400–$1,800. Enterprise agreement advice: $5,000–$30,000+. Workplace investigation: $4,000–$18,000+.
Victorian employment law specifics
Most Melbourne employment matters fall under federal jurisdiction (Fair Work Act 2009) and are heard at the Melbourne registry of the Fair Work Commission. State public sector employees may be covered by Victorian employment law. The Equal Opportunity Act 2010 (VIC) provides additional protections enforced through the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT), which has lower costs than court proceedings.
How Quillio supports Melbourne employment practices
I prepare FWC applications, draft responses to unfair dismissal claims, and research comparable conciliation outcomes to help set realistic settlement expectations. For Melbourne firms handling 5–10 FWC matters per month, I reduce the preparation time for each conciliation from hours to minutes.
Common issues
- Victorian public sector employees may have different rights under state legislation — check jurisdiction first
- VCAT discrimination claims have different procedures and costs from FWC unfair dismissal claims
- Costs agreements under the Legal Profession Uniform Law (Victoria) are mandatory before engagement
Try Quillio on a real matter.
The fastest way to know if Quillio fits your practice is to use it on your own work. The free trial requires no credit card and no sales call.
Start your free trial